Turkey Touring

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   I want to do a side trip before touring Turkey on April 2009. I have around 5 days. Where should I go?
   I'm considering Egypt or the countries in Eastern Europe. I need help with coming up with an itinerary.
   Greece is out since I've been there and seen most of the islands.

   There will be at least 2 of us going on the trip.

   • ANSWER:
     Before coming to Turkey, you can divide your extra 5 days between Hungary and the Czech Republic. Budapest and Prague are lovely cities.

2. QUESTION:
   want to go to turkey with family, which is the best touring company from uk to go with?
   I am from uk and want to go to turkey with family to see the mosques and culture also entertainment which is the best touring company from uk that goes to turkey?
   What does moonlight whatever her name is mean by infidal? she is proberly the biggest infidal herself. I asked a simple question to get answer not rude personal remarks made at me.

   • ANSWER:
     I'd try Thomas Cook or Thomson since they are the most known companies in the UK to see what they offer.

     PS. If you want to book the flight and the tour seperately then I can recomend Fez Travel http://www.feztravel.com/
     If you are in London go to Dalston where most of the Turkish Travel agencies are. Again, there are quite some good private agencies around Regent Street and Picadilly area.
     I hope this helps.

     Regarding the offensive answer coming from the woman with veil; Please do not mind her as she is one of the resident trolls of this section...There are a few more like her and if you see the answers are not sincere and polite just ignore them.

3. QUESTION:
   Independent travel or packaged tour for Turkey?
   We're planning to visit Turkey this December. A packaged tour would be more expensive but it could save us a lot of hassle. Travelling independently would give us more freedom and I believe it's more fun too. We don't have a lot of time though - 10 days for this trip. I've always preferred travelling independently but this time we might be able to cover more attractions if we join a tour. Is it easy to get around in Turkey? Which option is better? Please advise! Thanks.

   • ANSWER:
     dont be a shy guy mentioning hassle.To getter better prices choose.

     for instance you d stay in a pansion,you can ask about the price, get in and check the room in 3-4 different palce.To not to get cheated ask local people some advice.İf you get a charter and make it to Antalya airport ,get the HAVAS service bus to town and there you go.There s always a way to get rid of the one s who hassle.A tuff no may be.

     When you are in Antalya You have 250 km east and west coast to explore. İf you go North up the mountains you ll climb to pure oxygen.
     Renting a car from a good company might be a good idea.About traffic forget that everyone will obey the rules which means that you got to be extra careful.
     İf you want a special Luckyman advice:be one of the crowd istead of shouting İ m here.if i go abroad i mask in the crowd and be one of them.Until a word is spoken i got their nationality.

     Have a good trip and fun

4. QUESTION:
   Best way to travel from egypt to turkey overland without tour guide?
   My girlfriend and I are wanting to travel from Egypt to Turkey overland (no flying) on a budget. Through Jordan and Syria. We would preferably like to do it on our own without a tour company, is this possible in 3 weeks and how easy would it be to do? Any recommendations and particular place/sights that are 'must sees'? Any feedback would be appreciated.
   Cheers
   we are wanting to travel in june, so im hoping most of the issues have died down

   • ANSWER:
     as long as you have your visas and travel papers in order it should be no problem , just don't leave any valuables in the car when you stop at a hotel. 3 weeks is quite enough time , it will take much less time.

5. QUESTION:
   Which is the best muslim coach tour or airline tour to go to TURKEY?
   I want to go on holidays to turkey this summer with family, but i dont know which is the best touring company to go with i am from UK. Is it possible to go with muslim touring company or asian touring company

   • ANSWER:
     Although I don't have any idea what the purpose is but that is what I've found on the net :

     TCPH Ltd
     Islamic Tourism
     Unit 2B, 2nd Floor
     289 Cricklewood Broadway
     London NW2 6NX, UK

     Tel: +44 (0) 20 8452 5244
     Fax: +44 (0) 20 8452 5388
     post@islamictourism.com
     itmlondon@tcph.org

6. QUESTION:
   How much would it cost to have euro-tour from Turkey?
   We want to travel to europe specifically to Italy, Venice (maybe some other countries, if it doesn't cost much) for about a week or two from Turkey. Could any one please help to get some info about this.

   • ANSWER:
     Hy you'll open this link.then you'll find 2,3 or 4 links at the top of that page.1 of those links have the answer.Definitely you'll get a solution after go through them.me too get many details after following those links.
     http://www.google.com/cse?cx=partner-pub-6828716762099822%3Adrgcd3yew58&ie=ISO-8859-1&q=euro-tour+Turkey&sa=Search

7. QUESTION:
   Can anyone explain to me the rational behind the House of the Virgin Mary in Turkey?
   When i was in turkey my tour guide took us to this place and it confused the heck out of me. They essentially turned it into a shrine for Mary with a western wall ordeal for sending her messages. Lots of guards everywhere.

   • ANSWER:
     I'm guessing that you're speaking of the Shrine at Ephesus in Turkey where the Virgin Mary spent her last days when St John took her there after the Resurrection.

     It was built on the foundations of a sixth century building that had been built over the original one of that time.

     It is considered sacred to both the Christians and the Muslims, because the Virgin Mary is sacred to both Faiths and that is where she lay down to rest, may God grant her Peace.

     The more modern one was "discovered" in 1812 by a German nun, Sister Anne Catherine Emmerich.

     You might find the links below of interest, just in case your guide failed to appraise you of all the History.

     All the best.

     PS,

     I cannot answer for why the guards, but, I'm guessing there might have been some Terrorist threat to blow it up.

8. QUESTION:
   looking for a tour company that services Turkey and Greece that are comparable to Intrepid Tours?
   I am holidaying in Greece and Turkey in September and want to take a group tour. I really like adventure tours (but nothing too physically demanding as I'll be traveling with an elderly relative).

   I have taken Intrepid tours before and have been very impressed, however they don't have any available tours that suit our dates this time around.

   Can anyone recommend any ethical tour companies? Preferably ones that use local guides where possible and local transport (don't really like coach tours)?

   • ANSWER:
     Which country are you coming from? It depends on which country you re coming from to !!
     your tour oparater cheapest and safest way to arange that to you!

9. QUESTION:
   Is there any way to travel along with other tourists in Turkey, other than paying for a tour?
   I am going to Turkey and have already booked a costly 11 day guided tour. I would rather not spend that money on a tour so I was wondering if there is anyway that I can travel Turkey with other tourists (so I wont be alone), other paying to join a costly tour..? Any suggestions?

   • ANSWER:
     I don't know how much reliable these sites are but anyways...Here are some travel partner finder sites that I've found using Google:

     http://www.couchsurfing.org/

     http://www.travbuddy.com/

     http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/index.jspa

     http://www.travelpod.com/s/travelers/Turkey?st=user

     http://www.bootsnall.com/

     http://www.eurotrip.com/category/forums/findtravelfriends

     Hope that these help, good luck & enjoy your trip

10. QUESTION:
    I would like to go on a bike tour of Turkey?
    Hi,
    I'd like to go on a bike tour of Turkey, but want to go with a group first. Where can I find these groups, and how much does something like this approx. cost?
    And what kind of a bike do I need to buy?
    I would appreciate any other info. and experience!
    Thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      i know a great bicycle group in yahoo

      http://www.yesilbisiklet.com

11. QUESTION:
    Does anyone know of a tour from Greece to Turkey?
    Just shopping around for a tour aimed at a younger crowd or adventure travel style that stars in Greece and ends in Turkey (Istanbul or coast) for approx 7-12 days. Can anyone recommend any?

    • ANSWER:
      Best bargains are buying a trip IN Greece. For instance, if you take a bus trip from Thessaloniki to Istanbul it'll only cost you around a 100 euro for the trip, three-four nights at a good hotel, meals and sightseeing included. A Greek travel agent would be able to help.

12. QUESTION:
    Can you tell me which are the best trips, tours, activities & excursions when visiting Alanya in Turkey?
    Go on holiday to Alanya, Turkey with Missus & child (aged 4). What tours, excursions, trips, activities would you recommend; also the family entertainment. My hotel doesn't have a rep, so can anyone tell me of any good tour agents within Alanya.

    • ANSWER:
      Some of the places to see;

      Alanya Fortress - The monumental fortress was built between 1226-1232 by Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat. A great panoramic view over the entire city, the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.

      Alanya castle - Old forstress with beautiful sea view.

      Cleopatra Beach - The small bay of this beach extending to the peninsula and made of stones is called Cleopatra. According to the mythology Egyption Queen Cleopatra, in a voyage in Mediterranean, stopped by in Alanya and had a swim in this bay. The special feature of Cleopatra Bay is that the clearness of its water.

      Damlatas Cave - The cave has a constant temperature of 22-23 degrees Celsius and humidity level of more than 90 %. There are also stalagmites and stalactites which are several thousand years old. The climate in the cave is said to be therapeutic for those with respiratory problems, especially asthma sufferers.

      For good family activities, you can try boat trips and water parks;
      http://www.antalya-dolphinarium.com/alanya.html

      Please read the discussions about the tour agents from the link below. Hope it helps;
      http://www.alanyaforum.com/alanya/viewtopic.php?t=3277

13. QUESTION:
    I want a nice 7 day tour to turkey with a nice price any help?
    I want a nice 7 day tour to turkey with an affordable price like 500-700$ if u hve any experience with tourism companies please tell me

    • ANSWER:
      Check my site.It gives you idea as well

14. QUESTION:
    Any Suggestion for Winter tour in Turkey? I would like to visit most of the place. How?
    How many Days needed as minimum to visit throughout the turkey? Any local transport for visiting from town to town? How cold in Winter in Turkey?

    • ANSWER:
      I can't say something about travelling but..

      In south of Turkey it's not very cold..The coldest place of Turkey is East region.
      I recommend u Uludağ(a mountain) if u like skiing.

      http://images.google.com.tr/images?svnum=10&hl=tr&lr=&q=Uluda%C4%9F

      If u would like to visit historical places. Then Istanbul is the best :

      http://www.balsoy.com/Turkiye/inpictures/si/Istanbul.html

      But if u say 'No, I don't want skiing, cold places or historical places..' Then I recommend u Antalya and Izmir.

      http://images.google.com.tr/images?svnum=10&hl=tr&lr=&q=Antalya (Antalya in summers)

      http://images.google.com.tr/images?svnum=10&hl=tr&lr=&q=Izmir (Izmir)

15. QUESTION:
    How can I find travel agencies & tour operators in USA organising Faith,Biblical& Cultural Tours to Turkey?

    • ANSWER:
      You can gain more info about faith,biblical and cultural tours to Turkey from this travel agency :
      Ya'lla Tours USA Inc.
      Home Office 4711 S.W. Huber St. Portland, OR 97219
      Phone: 503-977-3758 Toll Free: 800-644-1595 Fax: 503-977-3765
      Email: information@yallatours.com

      I do advice you to visit Virgin Marry's house ,Ephesus (in Kusadasi) and cappodocia (amazing place to be) and Istanbul (speechless,beautiful), Pamukkale (it is unique )...

      Please check their package tours for yourself. I check their hotels (I have been in most of the hotels) they are clean and good serviced hotels. I do also know the company that they are working with in Turkey. They are proffesionals. June will be a great time to visit Turkey.

16. QUESTION:
    Which tour company is best for a six day tour of central Turkey ?
    I have already toured Istanbul. On this trip, I want to depart from Istanbul ( by air, not bus) and go to Ephesus and surrounding region, then return to Istanbul by air.

    • ANSWER:
      Try one of these:

      MidnightExpress 'R Us
      THSATA.com (The Happy Slaughtered Armenian Travel Agency)

      For more tourist info:

      WEUB.org (We are Uncivilized Barbarians)
      www.unitedhumanrights.org/Turkish_crimes_pictures.htm

17. QUESTION:
    Is it safe for a US Military member to bring a spouse and 2 young children to live in Ankara, Turkey?
    My family would like to try to accompany my husband on his tour to Turkey. What schools would my 6 year old attend? Would it be safe for my kids and I to be in public without my husband? I don't want to sound ignorant, just searching for the facts. Are American military members frowned upon in this part of Turkey?

    • ANSWER:
      Sounds like you have more than one question Let me get right down to them.

      First of all, I'd like to state that Ankara is the capital of Turkey. Therefore It is a big city (Second biggest after Istanbul). In a nutshell, Ankara is a very orderly city. The city itself (without the suburbs) has a population of more than three million people.

      When the crime rates of Ankara and NY City is compared, Ankara had 377 violent crimes per 100.000 people where NY City had 687 in the previous year. As I mentioned earlier, you should have no problem going out and enjoying the beautiful city. You should be familiar with your surroundings though, there are neighborhoods that even a native Turk wouldn't want to be in after certain hours. This should be no problem either, as I suppose you would be living in a quite and nice neighborhood.

      Every now and then, you may see protesters or strikers in the Kizilay Square. There is nothing to be scared of, since they're non-violent, and just want a raise in their salaries or they are frustrated with the administration.

      As for being American in Turkey and a wife of a seviceman, every foreigner is welcomed in Turkey. People hold nothing against individuals but you may hear from everday people a mouthful about the current administration.

      Contrary to what you think, people and your neighbors would like to know more than what you would like to share about you and where you come from. This can get quite overwhelming at times. However, they are just curious and It's not everyday they get to see someone ordinary from the States. (They are quite used to the President and all of those goverment guys.) Especially housewives are interested in different recipes and different ways of doing things.

      On schools... If your husband is stationed in Ankara, you should have no problem finding a private grammar school where you live. They would have teachers and staff with a good command of English. State schools are mostly crowded and your children may face adaptation difficulties.

      For all questions you have, you can talk to the American Embassy and they would kindly assist you in every manner.

      Hope, you have found what you were looking for. If you have more questions, please let me know.

18. QUESTION:
    does anyone know any tour groups from manchester that go to turkey?
    i want to go turkey istanbul in 2010 , i need reasonable price tour groups can someone help me please?

    • ANSWER:
      thomas cook have good holiday packages to there from £250 for 7nights in a 3*

19. QUESTION:
    Can you hire a Ferry from Turkey to Moroco?
    I shall be entering turkey and finishing a tour of Europe. After this i will either like to take a boat from Turkey to Morocoo or hire a boat to take me to Cyprus and then Israel for a day to visit the dead sea. I shall only do that for a day if it happens. Long story short

    Can i get a boat that takes me from Turkey to Moroco?
    Can i get a boat that takes me from Cyprus to Moroco?
    Can I get a boat from Turkey to Cyprus?
    Can I get a boat from Cyrpus to Israel?
    Where are the places I would need to go to find these boats?

    • ANSWER:
      about entering south cyprus after entering north cyprus

      "EU citizens may thus now cross the Green Line regardless of point of entry into Cyprus (that is, from both south to north and north to south). Other nationalities may sometimes still be turned back by Greek-Cypriot authorities if they entered the island via the north."

      http://wikitravel.org/en/Northern_Cyprus

      as i know you cant go to southern cyprus directly from turkey. there is no way of transport directly. you will go to somewhere in greece and fly from there, or take a ferry or sth if there is. in south cyprus you wont be turned away for entering turkey. it applies to north cyprus only....

      yes there is boat from turkey to cyprus but i would prefer the airways. there are flights from adana to cyprus usually.

20. QUESTION:
    Touring Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Turkey. Where would you go?
    I'm doing a project and my assigned area is the Northern Mediterranean area (Portugal, Spain, Albania, Andorra, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, France, Monaco, Italy, San Marino, Vatican City, Malta, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey) and I have to create an itinerary that includes 10 destinations within that area to visit, and I have to justify my choices.

    This is where I'm turning to you. If you could go to those places, what would definitely go see? What would you refuse to miss out on? I'm looking more specifically the five in the title, but if you have a really good one I will use it. If you can, tell me what, why, and where this place is.

    Thank you for your opinions! =] They'll help!

    • ANSWER:
      1st:
      France
      Reason: I live there, and there is the best food you can get in the world there! France also has the Eiffel Tower!

      2nd:
      Spain
      Reason: You can speak Spanish easily and it is a very complexe, (err, grande and great) country.

      3rd:
      Vatican City
      Reason: It's the smallest country in the world, counting 0.7 miles!

      4th:
      Greece
      Reason: It's an ancient civilization and I would like to discover new things there.

21. QUESTION:
    Does anyone know a travel agency in Vancouver that organize tours to Turkey?

    • ANSWER:
      1)
      http://www.questtravel.ca/europe/turkey.html

      Quest Travel
      Vancouver
      (604) 875-9125
      Toll Free
      1-800-575-9125

      800 Millbank Vancouver, BC
      V5Z 3Z4 Canada
      2)
      http://www.anatoliatravels.com/index.html
      Anatolia Tours & Travel Co. 536-470 Granville St. Vancouver, BC, V6C 1V5, Canada,

22. QUESTION:
    How much should I budget for 11 days in Turkey?
    HI, Im wondering how much I should budget per day while iam in in Turkey, I have booked a tour which include accommodation and breakfast but doesnt include any other meals or entrance fees to sites that the tour goes to. any help at all is great! Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Entrance fees to the museums and other attractions are quite high so if you plan to visit the most major tourist sights take that into consideration. For instance, according to the website entrance fee for Topkapi Palace is 20TL that is about .76 so if you plan to see at least one attraction average from a day and lunch and dinner depending on the place and the location and your appetite, say minimum! You may need money for transit tickets-busses, tramway, train, boats- and other small expenses so you need another . If I were you I wouldn't budget it less than 0 a day just to be on the safe side. That would be for my imminent. Nightlife is pretty expensive in Istanbul again that depends on how much you like to party and socialize that would increase the budget. Some places are priced ridiculously some places are not. Turkey is not as inexpensive as it used to be so I wouldn't leave home unless I have 00 to spend for this holiday.

      I am attaching a website seems quite accurate and the entrance fees are up to date to give you a better perspective on your budgeting for your trip.
      http://www.istanbultrails.com/2008/04/little-known-ways-to-make-the-most-of-topkapi-palace-part-1/
      If you plan to shop and buy same small gifts you need more money. When I go to Turkey I buy lots of stuff.

23. QUESTION:
    Anyone have info about Turkey & lebanon tour?
    Anyone have info about Turkey & lebanon tour. we are planning one end of December. locations to visit, reasonable accomodation for family

    • ANSWER:
      Hi, Fais p. Planning a trip is so much fun! Where are you traveling from? I work for Gate 1 Travel, and we specialize in guided tours of Turkey leaving from the United States. However, if you are traveling outside the US, take a look at our website anyway as it has some great itinerary ideas including hotels and must-sees in Turkey. If you have any specific questions, please let me know! http://www.gate1travel.com/turkey-travel/default.aspx

24. QUESTION:
    Is a winter holiday to central Turkey possible (or a good idea)?
    On Michael Palin's programme the other night he was in Turkey. He visited Cappadocia, somewhere I've wanted to go for a while. It was covered in snow when he went, making it even more beautiful than usual. I'd love to see that part of the world in the snow (maybe do a bit of a tour of Cappadocia, Sivas, Amasya, etc); is it feasible to tour Central Turkey for a couple of weeks in winter?

    I'd particularly like to know how expensive it would be compared to summer, how easy it would be to get there and to get around, and how reliable the weather is likely to be (I want snow, not drizzle!). Also, would I need to go independently, or are there any organised tours?

    Before anyone points this out, I know it will be very, very cold, and I don't have a problem with that!

    • ANSWER:
      i have flown out on flights into the area from istanbul to kayseri on the smaller planes. security is pretty tight so make sure your passport & any other paperwork is current & your baggage is labeled.

      a good bus system for public transportation & rental cars are both available. prices are about the same winter or summer as there are hot springs, "open air museums", ancient religious sites, hiking & horseriding etc but hot air balloons only go up in good weather, not winter -- the balloons not the prices.
      carpet prices would be lower as less tourism in winter.

      you of course can go independently or i'm sure you can find a tour somewhere -- but not someone who can predict the weather as it can go from simply icy to snowy .....

25. QUESTION:
    Trip to italy greece and turkey or ireland and england?
    I have a sort of option on a trip this summer.
    I can go for 13 days to italy greece and a half day in turkey with ef tours that friends are going on or i can go for 9 days to england and ireland with my mom and sister and mom's fiance. Turkey is now starting to scare me a bit, being borders with war zones. I dont know which to choose and i would like to see opinions on what users think

    • ANSWER:
      go to greece with your friends then fly on your own to England to meet your family, that way you get to be with all people and dont have to visit Turkey. no worries.

26. QUESTION:
    Me and my husband are going to Turkey the second week in April. Where should we go in Turkey and why?
    We are in our middle 20's and are on somewhat of a budget. we don't mind spending money as long as its not too expensive. We are going to Istanbul for sure and going to grand bazaar and touring Mosques. What else is there worth seeing/doing in Istanbul? I love belly dancing.....is there any shows anywhere pertaining to that? Also where else in Turkey should we go and why? We have about a week total in Turkey?? Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Make sure you go to a coastal city... I would suggest Bodrum or Fethiye...

      Take a bus to any of these places from Istanbul. It's gonna be a kinda long bus ride, but it's worth it.

      If you have enough time, take a bus from Istanbul to "Selcuk" a small town nearby Izmir. Selcuk is a must see with its world famous ancient city of Ephesus (which hosts one of the 7 wonders of the world) and the house of Virgin Mary (if you are into such kind of stuff). From Selcuk, you can easily go to Bodrum or Fethiye.

      Bodrum has a vibrant nightlife and, just like ephesus, has one of the 7 wonders of the world (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7599845@N06/3619909369/sizes/l/ ).

      Fethiye has some of the BEST beaches not only in Turkey but also in the world. Your Turkey trip would be INCOMPLETE without a boat tour in its turquoise shores. Fethiye (or Bodrum) would be nice for an unforgettable boat trip (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9518266@N06/749219455/sizes/o/ ).

      From the coastal area, I think you should go inland to discover the other faces of Turkey.

      First, go to Denizli to Pamukkale to see the unique travertines and the natural hot water pools (http://www.flickr.com/photos/26034413@N04/2772409446/ )

      I would say from Pamukkale, go to further inland--to the spectacular lands of Cappadocia... Cappadocia is one of the other unique beauties of Turkey. Take a look at the photos.
      http://www.flickr.com/photos/terdata/82091615/
      http://www.flickr.com/photos/lecu/2246444688/
      

      If I were you, I would start my trip from a coastal area (for example, enter Turkey in Bodrum or Fethiye). Enjoy the beauties of the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas. Then, move to Pamukkale from where you can go to Cappadocia. Then, from Cappadocia, go to Istanbul from where you can fly back home...

      Taking the bus would not cost a lot. You can stay one or two days in all of these places. Arrange your bus ride and sleep on the bus from Pamukkale to Cappadocia and from Cappadocia to Istanbul. That would save you from paying for 2 nights in a hotel!

      I hope you enjoy your stay in Turkey!

27. QUESTION:
    Currently on an accompanied tour in Turkey, DH going to Korea, can't stay in Turkey.. options?
    DH is PCSing to Korea for 1 yr unaccompanied. Normally, only options are stay put or move to next duty location. Because of rules, I can't stay in Turkey. What are my options and how does it affect DH?

    • ANSWER:
      you will get a paid HHG move to your choice of locations stateside. SOMETIMES they are grumpy and limit it to his Home of record( where he enlisted from). unless he has follow on orders in hand in which case you can just PCS to the new duty station ahead of him.( and run the risk of those orders being cancled or changed at the last minute).

28. QUESTION:
    I am planning for a tour package to Turkey. Please advise which is better - SA Tours or Dynasty Travel?
    I am planning for a tour to Turkey in mid May 2010. Is it a good month to go Turkey? I checked the 10D Turkey tour packages from different agencies and the itineraries offered are more or less the same. However, their prices do differ - SA Tours and Five Stars Travel are the cheapest, followed by Dynasty Travel, then Chan Brothers. I am thinking of going for SA Tours since it is about S0 cheaper than Dynasty Travel given the same airline (Turkish Airline), but I am not sure whether the accommodations and foods etc etc will be compromised. Please advise me if your have any experience with travelling with SA Tours or Dynasty Travel. Thank you very much.

    • ANSWER:
      if you know which hotels they arranged i can help, i live in istanbul but have no idea about these companies so write about the programs a bit, then we can tell if there is a difference of quality

      may is a perfect month to visit turkey. weather is nice.it doesnt rain but it's not hot either.

29. QUESTION:
    Is it worth going on a package tour to Turkey in early May?
    is it possible to swim?

    • ANSWER:
      Turkey is usually lovely in May - very green, not too hot, not too crowded. Definitely shorts and "t"-shirt weather, though the sea might still be a bit chilly.

30. QUESTION:
    How could we arrange staying in a same hotel in Turkey ?
    hey,my friend from Russia and I from Rome would like to go to Turkey in summer and and get a room in a hotel...she said we would get a tour but how could it be possible when each of us has to get different flights and etc,,,?
    Yes,I had to ask it somewhere and I prefered Turkey

    • ANSWER:
      make your reservation by an agency..and yes make your room double room( and french bed
      and flight tickets not that important it might be different by 2 hours or more...you will meet anyway...

31. QUESTION:
    I would like to send my wife and two kids to Turkey in a tour package what advices can i have?

    • ANSWER:
      Make it one way ....

32. QUESTION:
    What is the best 4 or 5 day tour of ANZAC day, Turkey? (For Kiwis)?
    My sister and I would like to do a tour of Turkey including instanbul and have lots of history and experienced guides.

    • ANSWER:
      Soccer Coach is wrong. I live in Turkey and it's fine.

      4 or 5 days is a very short time for such a large and rich country. You need to spend enough time in Istanbul to cover the basics - Topkapi Palace, Aya Sofia, the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) and Yerebatan Saray (ancient underground water cistern) are all close together and could be completed in a (tiring) day but not on a Monday (Aya Sofia is closed) or a Tuesday (Tokapi is closed). A short distance from there is the Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi). There are countless other places to go and things to see in Istanbul but these are the absolute essentials.

      From Istanbul you could travel to Canakkale in order to tour the Gallipoli peninsula. It is about 6 hours by bus so you could perhaps do that over night to allow more time for sightseeing. Anzac House provides good budget accommodation and arranges tours (expertly guided) of both Gallipoli and the nearby site of ancient Troy.

      If time allows, from there I would recommend travelling (2 hours by bus) to Behramkale (Assos), a beautiful old village of stone houses perched on a hill next to the ancient site with an equally attractive harbour area down below.

      Also to consider would be Ayvalik and Bergama (Pergamum) which are only a few hours away from Assos/Canakkale.

      For the rest of Turkey you'll just have to come back again! It's a beautiful country with an enormous amount of history. I've been visiting since 1973 and living here since 1993 and still haven't seen it all!

33. QUESTION:
    Where can I find noise ruduction head phones with microphones for noisy factory tours in Turkey?
    I need a system for touring a very noisy factory. It should protect the ears from damage from very loud production, while also having microphones so we can discuss.

    A similar devise is shown below:
    http://www.hdhearing.com/People/TourGuideSys.htm

    Does anyone know where you can find this in Turkey? If you know a place in Izmit or Gebze that would be great. Otherwise, Istanbul.
    Unfortunately, the links offered by Ipek K have headphones for personal use. I am looking for a "group use system." This will allow a small group of people to communicate while touring a factory. It will need to have microphones so that everyone can hear each other. At the same time, it must block out the sound of the noisy machines in the factory.

    • ANSWER:
      Hello Matt,

      Is that what you are looking for?

      http://www.ucuzu.com/mikrofon-kulaklik-c3109/philips-050-gurultu-onleyici-kulaklik-p22320518.html

      http://www.weblebi.com/UrunDetaylari.aspx?Id=HWEH79-mfz7YP0ZQHJFc1g

      http://www.yonjashop.com/Default.aspx?Pt=13&Cid=vl_t6neirsJLHj0i4-mD5Q

      Please tell me any of those are good for you, I can try to locate a seller in your area

34. QUESTION:
    Can anybody tell me a site that offer tours in turkey, please answer.?

    • ANSWER:
      I don't know whether you heard a site named Tours4fun.com. It is an online tour provider which i always booked tours. It is a reliable tour agency, you can trust it. This year, my brother used their UK tour and found no problem. Their service is good and the tour guider is friendly.
      http://www.tours4fun.com/greece-turkey-tours/

35. QUESTION:
    How do i get a tour operator to go with my hotel in turkey?

    • ANSWER:
      Hi,

      Adventure Tours offers various tours all around Turkey. View our web site for all Turkey Tours.
      Our services are:
      Tours to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Troy, Nemrut, Trabzon, Zeugma or another Turkey Tours
      Adventure, Cultural, Daily, Budget, Religious Tours
      Tailor Made Tours in Turkey
      Hotel reservations for all Turkey Hotels
      Special wedding ceremony organizations
      Blue Cruise and private yacht tours
      Congress and seminar organizations
      Guidance, Rent a car, Airport transfer
      Istanbul, Cappadocia, Bodrum Hotels

      Ref : http://www.adventuretours.com.tr/

36. QUESTION:
    Has anyone ever travelled Turkey on a tour by Barefoot Travel? Any info/ reviews would be great...?
    Travelling on a 3 day tour from Istanbul to Kusadasi and Pamukkale. Are they dodgy?

    • ANSWER:
      I haven't taken a tour with them, but my company uses them for other travel arrangements and they have only been helpful. They have a solid reputation in the travel sector here in Istanbul as well.

37. QUESTION:
    Help with my tour to turkey?
    I am going to Turkey next week and it is my first visit.I want you to tell me where I can find some cheap markets with soldes.I wana buy Turkish products such as leather but ofcourse I must afford it so guys help me on this one .Plus I wana get ready when it comes to weather what kinda clothes shall I bring with me?IS it hot in there or its sometimes cold?I am going to visist various Turkish cities such as Istanbul,Adana,Kaapdokia,marseen so I wana know whats the wethaer like in these cities and where I can find some cheap markets along with soldes that make my shopping affordable.

    • ANSWER:
      I can speak for Adana. It's hot and going to be hot for two more months (sadly).

      For cheap stuff, you can try American Bazaar/Market (Amerikan Pazarı in Turkish) where American products are sold. There is a US Air Base here and soldiers use it too, sometimes you can find second hand products from soldiers.

      For cheap shopping you can also visit Galleria. There are open markets during certain weekdays, and you can find very cheap stuff there.

      Also, you can go to Çakmak Caddesi (Çakmak Street). There are many shops along the street and they're relatively cheap. There's also a big mall called Çakmak Plaza in the street.

38. QUESTION:
    Any One going to ANZAC Day in Turkey?
    Hi.. Any One going to ANZAC Day Tours in Turkey?

    • ANSWER:
      no i shall celebrate anzac day here in malta

39. QUESTION:
    Could you recommend a travel agent/ agency (in the US) to help plan a trip to Antalya, Turkey this February?
    I've wanted to travel to Antalya for several years - and now, finally have the chance but I need a travel agent to help make arrangements. I would like to find an agent to help plan an independent vacation - I don't really want to be part of a bus tour, or trapse all over Turkey..
    I've never been there and am unfamiliar with the area and Turkey (other than guidebooks and such.)

    • ANSWER:
      Check out this site :

      http://www.iexploreturkey.com/?gclid=CLbguqHQ65ACFSdCEgodIhCkXw

      Hope it helps

40. QUESTION:
    Is Rihanna going to perform in Istanbul, Turkey ?
    Is the singer Rihanna going to tour Turkey for the Last Girl on Earth Tour

    • ANSWER:
      I think she will be in Istanbul right after her performance in Athens tomorrow, June 1st.
      I checked her tour and its said that she will perform in Istanbul on June 3rd in Turkcell Kuruçeşme Arena.

41. QUESTION:
    I would like to travel to Turkey ?
    What is the best time of year to go weather-wise?

    Does anyone know of any good companies for tours to Turkey?

    Is there anything special that I should know about Turkey before I go?

    Thank you!

    • ANSWER:
      The best time to visit Turkey is anytime from May to September. In September and may, the weather will not be so hot and cold. During summer it is hot.

      Here are the websites of some companies for tours to Turkey:

      http://www.cityofsultans.com/?landing=GoogleAds_guidedturkeytours&gclid=CK3J_aTOr5UCFSXNIgodEFn7ag
      http://www.iexplore.com/dmap/Turkey/Overview
      http://www.senkrontours.com/
      http://www.packagetoursturkey.com/
      http://www.affordabletours.com/Destinations/Turkey/

      And you can get more information about Turkey from official Tourism website:
      http://www.goturkey.com/

42. QUESTION:
    Do you know any travel agent who can arrange visa and package tours to Turkey? I need best deal...?

    • ANSWER:
      I think you are from india and you can contact Aravind Air Travels from Chennai to get the visa and package tours to Turkey. They are the best. You may contact +91-9940058585...

43. QUESTION:
    Are there group day-tours from Goreme or Urgup to Kaymakli and /or Derinkuyu in Turkey?
    If I go independently, will I find an on-the-spot guide to show me around? How much would the guide charge?

    • ANSWER:
      If you go independently, you may find a guide for a day or two via a tourism agency or by your hotel's aid.

      You can contact this agency, they will give you detail information:

      http://www.twarp.com/captour.htm

      http://www.betatemp.org/chalcedon/turkey/packages/info/108/ihlara-valley-tour.html

      There are permanent tour guides in Derinkuyu and Kaymakli since you aren't allowed to go into the underground cities by yourself. The fee is included in the visit ticket- which isn't too much.

      Being a frequent visitor to Cappadoicia area, I would personally suggest you to hire a guide. The area is too wide and if you want to do the visits by yourself, you may loose too much time on the roads plus you may miss important visit spots in between.

      Hope you have a good time

44. QUESTION:
    Where is the best river rafting in Turkey?
    I found some stuff online, but the companies running the tours always make their river sound like the best, of course. I'd like some personal opinions on anything from 1 to 5, good quiet canoeing to rushing rapids, anywhere in the country.

    • ANSWER:
      I have some friends who have been to Coruh and had fabulous time.
      And i have been to Saklikent near Kas and made body rafting it was great:) of course you want to learn about the normal rafting so i would say Coruh.
      There is also Dalaman River.

      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Çoruh_River

45. QUESTION:
    How was your last vacation to the country Turkey?
    What has made you the most satisfied? Which cities have you visited? Did you join any tours?

    • ANSWER:
      I have been in Turkey four times so far, three times for my summer vacations (Kusadasi, Marmaris and Alanya) and I visited Istanbul once. And all the times I had a great time!

      If you asked me what trip I find the best, I couldn't make up my mind, as they were all great and interesting and every trip had its own story, so I really cannot tell this one is better than another one. I enjoyed sea & sun & send and I did admire famous sites and monuments, but what I found to be the greatest thing about Turkey - and this I can tell - is the social component. In general, people are very open and friendly and also optimistic and light hearted, even if their living conditions are not great, and they are very good at partying as well . I really had a great time in Turkey and I'm looking forward to go there again!

46. QUESTION:
    tours from israel to turkey?
    Tours to Turkey from israel?
    I know there are tour companies who offer 3-4 day trips to turkey from israel, i can't find any using google. Can anyone refer me to a site or something?

    Thanks so much in advance

    • ANSWER:
      Eshet Tours Ltd Nahalat Itchak 12 Tel Aviv Israel Attn: Barbara Weiner phone (972) 3 6937725 mobile (972) 54 4 769 689 barbara@eshet-tours.com

      http://www.israelataclick.com/ShowItem.aspx?ItemID=8950&Category=Travel%20Agencies%20in%20Israel&LocationID=19084&ImagePath=

      http://www.worldtravelserver.com/travel/en/israel/jerusalem/travel_agencies.html

47. QUESTION:
    leftover turkey sandwich?
    whats tour best turkey sandwich cosist of..

    • ANSWER:
      My favorite turkey sandwich consists of turkey breast meat, provolone cheese, crisp lettuce and 1000 Island dressing on whole wheat toast - it tastes divine.

48. QUESTION:
    Cappadocia, Turkey tours preference, please choose which ones from the list provided...?
    Hello.

    This question is twofold.

    First of the three listed below, which one would you choose, from must-do to last. List in order of preference.

    Second, if I plan to do the tours by myself, which is the easiest and which would be the hardest. List again from easiest to hardest. PS I won't have a car.

    Thank you! Here is the list:

    1 DEVRENT VALLEY,MONKS VALLEY,AVANOS,GOREME OPEN AIR MUSEUM,UCHISAR.PANAROMA
    2 ROSE VALLEY,RED VALLEY,CAVUSIN VILLAGE,ORTAHISAR,KAYMAKLI UNDERGROUND CITY.
    3 DERINKUYU UNDERGROUND CITY,IHLARA VALLEY,SELIME MONASTARIES.

    • ANSWER:
      If I have to choose with the way you made the list, I would do it in the same order.

      Since you don't have a car, I recommend you to go with a tour company. They will show you everything on your list in 3 or 4 days.
      Of course, you could do it by yourself but you will be spending so much time waiting for public transportation, instead you could spend it seeing the sights. Also, I am not even sure if the public transit is available for each place you want to visit on your list.

      However, the first one would be the easiest, if you are going to do it on your own.

      EDIT:

      These are some of the things you can do in Cappadocia. Ihlara Valley outside of the area so I would do that on my way back again most of the tours would include that trip into their programs.

      Go to Goreme Open Air Museum and visit the painted churches and then make your way to Cavusin which is a small villiage not far from Goreme. When you come to Cavusin walk up the hill through the village you arrive to Cavusin Castle. It is a ruin but there are many rooms that you wonder around. When you climb up the stairs and get to the top you see the breathtaking view of Goreme and Zelve Valley.

      Another day visit the Devrent Valley where the fairy chimneys are. According to the legend the reason they are called fairies because of the voice of wind mixing with the songs of fairies! They are basically rock formations consolidated from volcanic ashes due to volcanic eruptions.
      You will see more mushroom shaped fairy chimneys all around as well as in Urgup, Pasabag and other Valleys in the area.

      You should also visit Kaymakli Underground City while you are there. The underground cities are fascinating in Capadocia, you will notice how they are superbly planned out and constructed and yet they are thousands of years old. After visiting the underground city go and visit the wineries in Uchisar and sample the wines, which are distilled from the grapes of this area. While you are there and if you feel hungry have something to eat in Avanos inside of a cave restaurant, and then visit the pottery shops around.

      Another day try to go to Derinkuyu Underground City and Ihlara Valley.

      Did you know the name of Cappadocia, means the land of beautiful horses?
      There are many horseback-riding tours in the area. You could even do all these things simply by riding a horse. OR even on a balloon flight to see the view of Cappadocia from above!

      If it may be an interest to you go and watch the Whirling Dervish Ceremony.

      There are many things to do in Capadocia so if you really want to explore the area you should go there minimum for 3 or 4 days.

      I hope you enjoy your trip there.

49. QUESTION:
    How much money should i bring with me to Turkey?
    For a ten day trip all thoughout istanbul.
    Not including flight or hotel or transportation.
    So for like activities, museums, tours, night life, food, and yea

    • ANSWER:
      Well here's a tip- when you eat out you will be overcharged every single time. Overcharging travellers is part of Istanbul culture, and any Turks I've mentioned this to agrees. They just don't think it is wrong. So whenever you eat out, and you expect a meal to cost a certain amount, bring at least double.

50. QUESTION:
    Countries near turkey, worth visiting?..?
    Hi, We are planning to go on tour to turkey. We are a family of 2 adults, 2 girls, 13 and 8 yrs old and 2 boys, 5 and 2 yrs old. Can you plx tell us if Turkey is a suitable place for a family-tour (i've heard its pretty boring for kids) and if there are countries close or near turkey which we can visit. We are actually planning a 15 to 20 days tour.
    PS: If turkey is not a suitable place, then please suggest a not-too-far and fun place from Pakistan.
    THANKS.

    • ANSWER:
      Countries near turkey, worth visiting and not...
      Armenia - yes
      Greece - yes
      Cyprus - yes
      Georgia - no do not recommend, just Tbilisi, and
      nothing much there to see..
      Azerbaijan - no do not recommend ever

      @"Azerbaijan is also wonderful country..i highly recommend you to visit there.."
      http://www.forbes.com/2008/02/26/pollution-baku-oil-biz-logistics-cx_tl_0226dirtycities.html
      http://www.today.az/news/society/43515.html
      Ya got to be kidding...

      Bulgaria - maybe
      Iran - no do not recommend
      Iraq - no do not recommend especially w/kids
      Syria - no do not recommend w/kids

      http://www.simatours.com/
      http://www.armeniaexplorer.com/